Lahrel had her first break in music as the opening act for platinum-selling artist OMI on his worldwide tour, and has since been making a name for herself as a songwriter, working with the likes of Wiz Khalifa and Beyoncé collaborator BEAM.
Her upcoming single ‘Sit Down’ with Afro B sees the West London native bringing together pop, dancehall, and afrobeats, with a touch of reggaeton, to create a high-energy track that empowers listeners to claim their space and self-worth.
Produced by the innovative Swedish duo PVBLO&SWRD, who have also worked with Tion Wayne, Unknown T, and A1 x J1, among others, ‘Sit Down’ is a high-energy anthem that embodies confidence, self-worth, and resilience. The track is driven by pulsating beats, hypnotic energy, and catchy melodies, perfectly complementing Lahrel’s powerful vocals and songwriting. Afro B brings his dynamic flair to the collaboration, adding a touch of afrobeats magic, humour and swagger with a touch of self-assuredness that further elevates the song’s bold and assertive vibe. Together, Lahrel and Afro B create a track that’s set to dominate airwaves and playlists worldwide, and connect with listeners on a universal level.
Tell us about this track ‘Sit Down’ and what inspired it
It was inspired by me reaching a place where I wanted to be unapologetically ME and show the many layers to who I am. You know, my singles have been cool and I have been focused on writing good songs, but with my new EP that is set to release next year, I’m really going to be showcasing who I am, and things I have been too scared to say, I’m starting to say. ‘Sit Down’ is the intro to this.
Another reason we wanted to kick off the releases with ‘Sit Down’ is that it is very unapologetic and strong! In Jamaica we would say “sidung”, which means “go sit down somewhere”, basically telling you to have several seats. It gives an ‘I’m in charge’ kind of vibe! One day I was in the studio writing for Afro B for his new project and we were chatting about life as we usually do, and the producer started playing this beat, and I remember Afro B made a comment to the effect of let’s see what she does with this beat. My reply was “boy have several seats” and from there, I just started freestyling and the magic began.
What drew you to want to collaborate with Afro B?
Honestly I started off as a writer for Afro B. Being in the studio with him, I first hand got to see his artistry from a different perspective, Afro B makes great music and of course has had a successful career off the back of his hit song ‘Joanna’, but it was when we began working on his project that I became even more inspired by his style, melodies and the sound that he has carved out for himself!!! One day, he was like Ls I want you to jump on this record, which you will hear on his upcoming album, which was really cool, and he returned the favour for me.
What was the creative process like between you two?
Nothing complicated, we are both vibes people, we don’t overthink anything in the studio. We usually come up with a melody first and record that. We usually would have words in the melody, or sometimes even with myself, all the words are there in the freestyle and the song is done! I personally like the process to be as free as possible… It makes the process more enjoyable.
What’s your background musically? What inspires your sound?
I grew up in church, sang in choir and played a great tambourine lol. I grew up surrounded by musicians.. My dad and Jamirouqui were best friends and a lot of songs were written at our home, rehearsals you name it. I went to Barbara Speaks for a while, which is a performing arts school! Music is something that is really in my DNA… My sound is inspired by my life and experiences AND I would say my city, which is London. You know, growing up in London, it’s a melting pot of cultures, races, religions! It’s such a privilege to be able to walk outside and experience a blend of cultures and personalities in one, so I have definitely drawn inspiration from these things that have influenced my sound today .
What are some of the themes you explore with your music?
I was having this conversation with my manager Ryan Dillon and we were talking about my music and how I write…. Being someone who has written for many different artists, I have been able to write many different concepts and themes for artists on each project. But when it comes to myself, I notice I tend to write about love…not all the time but A LOT lol. As of late and especially with my upcoming EP, I say things in a very non-traditional way, things people would want to say but maybe do not know how, or do not feel comfortable to say! I also have an alter ego that we call ‘Tequila’ which is heavily a part of my sound and theme. ‘Tequila’ is my somewhat rapper/sassy side, and the theme is always to write from a place of strength, boldness, and fearlessness.
You’ve had plenty of difficulties and setbacks that life threw at you. How do you keep yourself motivated day to day?
PRAY first.., I keep God close in all I do!! I have a small small circle! I make sure I’m around the right energy, I’m big on that! It’s hard, some days I don’t feel motivated, some days I don’t have the energy to do anything if I’m honest!! Life is lifeing, we’re all trying to achieve goals, and it can require a lot out of you with so many moving parts, so it’s important I create a safe space for myself! For the high and low moments. I can be having the best or worst day, but music is always my vice and makes me feel great and motivated…. Oh I always try to look back at every step I’m making and embrace the journey, and try not to look at what’s not happening and that really helps.
What was it like touring with OMI and what have you learned?
Touring with OMI is one of the best music experiences I have had… shout out to OMI, a person who has taught me so much in this game especially as a writer. He is one of the best writers I know. We travelled to places like India, China, Singapore, Europe, everywhere really, and I learned that music is really a universal language! Touring really helped me as an artist, because I first hand was a witness to see how one song can travel so far, and also see how successful “Cheerleader” really was! I’ve never seen anything like it, and to be honest, what was achieved still inspires me to this day! I also learnt that tour life is not for the weak, travelling from China to India to Poland was something very surreal, and your body does feel it, especially if you don’t take care of it properly.
Who is an artist or producer you love these days and would want to work with?
I love so many artists and producers. We would be here all day! But I do love Lil Simz. I would love to work with her. Also Rosalia, I’m a big fan of hers. I do want to work with French artists so that’s definitely something I’m looking into. Oh I have been listening to Tayc, he’s a dope French artist. I mean I work with such amazing talent already.
What can we expect from your future?
A girl from West London marking her place in this world… inspiring others and giving you all great music consistently! This is just the beginning.
